Reimagine the Estuary

Conservation, Education, Stewardship

A Vision For the Future of Environmental Stewardship

The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve) is a dynamic partnership between Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Spanning more than 76,000 acres along northeast Florida’s coast—from Ponte Vedra Beach to Palm Coast—the Reserve is one of 30 National Estuarine Research Reserves in the United States.

GTM’s mission is to conserve the area’s natural biodiversity and cultural heritage through science-based strategies. Our vision centers on research, education, and stewardship—empowering communities through environmental education, volunteerism, and citizen engagement.

At the heart of our work is the 21,000-square-foot Environmental Education Center, featuring interpretive exhibits, aquariums, classrooms, teaching and research labs, an auditorium, and an outdoor amphitheater overlooking the scenic Guana River Aquatic Preserve. Here, our scientists and visiting researchers conduct year-round environmental monitoring, while education staff provide engaging programs for learners of all ages on the importance of estuaries and how to protect them. Our Collaboration Program also offers professional training on critical local issues like watershed management and invasive species control.

Now, after 20 years of impact, we are excited to launch our next chapter: Reimagine the Estuary – A New Discovery Learning Center. This innovative expansion will transform how we connect people to nature by combining classroom learning with immersive, hands-on outdoor experiences and community service opportunities. The new center will tell the story of the estuary—its past, present, and future—highlighting community efforts in conservation and inspiring deeper connections with the natural world.

We welcome over 300,000 visitors annually, who will take their discoveries from the center out onto our trails, fostering lasting stewardship and environmental action. The new space will feature rotating exhibits, expanded outdoor learning areas, and showcase cutting-edge research from GTM and our partners. It will also double our student reach beyond the current 5,000+ students per year and significantly expand volunteer engagement from our base of 300 dedicated individuals.

This partnership ensures that the latest research guides sustainable management practices. As a result, GTMNERR advances scientific knowledge while preserving estuarine ecosystems for nature and local communities.

The Reimagine the Estuary Project

Will amplify GTM’s impact—strengthening research, expanding education, and advancing conservation while cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders. At the same time, the project will enhance ecotourism opportunities and support the vitality of small businesses that depend on a thriving, healthy estuary.